Followers commit to habits that involve fitness, skincare, healthy eating, journaling, and digital minimalism, with social media documenting the process

A new social media trend is replacing New Year’s resolutions. “The Great Lock In” is a TikTok-driven goal in which Gen Z participants engage in hyper-focused, three-month self-improvement challenges before the new year begins.

The challenge, which started in September, is seen as a way to jumpstart the calendar year and stay ahead of goals.

Followers adapt to habits that involve fitness, skincare, healthy eating, journaling, and digital minimalism, documenting the progress on social media. It is focused on individual priorities that better their career, relationships, or wellness.

Experts say the Great Lock In is rooted in productivity and “grind” culture, emerging as a response to the distractions of smartphones, economic uncertainty, and post-pandemic isolation.

The movement also reflects broader economic pressures, as recent graduates aged 22–27 face a 4.8% unemployment rate, higher than the national 4% rate, per the NY Fed data.

While locking in provides structure to a goal, critics warn it can increase pressure and anxiety, prioritizing performance over enjoyment.